Merriam-Webster defines "luminous" as "emitting or reflecting" light.
This ancient mirror REFLECTS light very well. There is also symbolism of a "luminous" nature:
"The disc of the mirror is a visual metaphor for the sun, shown in the New Kingdom as a horizonatally elongated ovaloid - the rising sun rather than the circular disc of noon."
(From _New Kingdom Remains from Cemeteries R, V, S, and W at Qustul and Cemetery K at Adindan_, by Bruce Beyer Williams, pages 97-98)

Mirror, silver and copper alloy
New Kingdom, Dynasty 18, 1479-1390 B.C.
Reportedly from Aswan
Brooklyn Museum 37635e Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund

(From the info card)
"The hairstyle of the nude female figure on the handle of this mirror - thick braids surrounding the face - was popular in the middle of the Eighteenth Dynasty, allowing art historians to date the work."


Queen Kawit, a wife of Mentuhotep II, is attended to on her sarcophagus, and has her mirror to inspect the hairdresser's work
The male attendant pouring the Queen a drink says, "For your ka, O mistress."
The KA is an aspect of the soul meaning vital life force of the personality.

©Joan Ann Lansberry, 2008-2012
Photos for "Photo Friday" Themes
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